Create an Absolute Reference

There is another way to manage copying formulas so that they point to the right data.

 

An Absolute Reference is defined an a specific Row or Column. The Absolute Reference will NOT update if it is copied to another Row with Autofill.

 

5. Try This: Create an Absolute Reference

Select Cell C6.

Click your cursor in the Formula Bar on B1.

On your keyboard, click on F4.

 

What Do You See? The formula in Cell C6 is now: =$B$1, where the dollar $ sign means that it is Absolute.

 

Try This Too: AutoFill the Absolute Reference

Select Cell C6.

Double click the Autofill handle.

 

It looks like it worked this time.

 

Exam 77-882: Microsoft Excel 2010 Core

5. Applying Formulas and Functions

5.3. Apply cell references in formulas: Absolute Cell References